The CCBA Pioneer Award is presented annually to an individual who has bravely and tenaciously served as a leader in improving access for community college graduates into baccalaureate education.
2025 Honoree
“It’s truly an honor to receive the Pioneer Award from CCBA. Community colleges play an important role in preparing our students for the workforce by offering career-focused education, diverse pathways, and a supportive environment. It continues to be our goal this General Assembly to ensure that Ohio’s students have access to quality, affordable education at every age.”
Matt Huffman, Ohio House Speaker
PAST PIONEER AWARD WINNERS
Madeline Pumariega
2024 Pioneer Award Winner
Tonjua Williams
2024 Pioneer Award Winner
Jan Yashiwora
2023 Pioneer Award Winner
Assemblymember Jose Medina
2022 Pioneer Award Winner
Becky Nutt
2022 Pioneer Award Winner
Mike Hansen
2021 Pioneer Award Winner
Dr. Jean Floten
2020 Pioneer Award Winner
Dr. Shirley Reed MBA, Ed.D.
2019 Pioneer Award Winner
Dr. Malcolm Grothe
2018 Pioneer Award Winner
Dr. Constance Carroll
2017 Pioneer Award Winner
Debra Bragg
2016 Pioneer Award Winner
Al Lorenzo
2015 Pioneer Award Winner
Senator Marty Block
2014 Pioneer Award Winner
Dr. Jill Wakefield
2013 Pioneer Award Winner
Bruce MacKenzie
2012 Pioneer Award Winner
Belle Wheelan
2011 Pioneer Award Winner
Will Holcombe
2010 Pioneer Award Winner
Beth Hagan
2009 Pioneer Award Winner
Dahlia Repole
2008 Pioneer Award Winner
Linda Thor
2007 Pioneer Award Winner
Carl M. Kuttler, Jr
2006 Pioneer Award Winner
(co-winner)
Senator Don Sullivan
2006 Pioneer Award Winner
(co-winner)
Kenneth P. Walker
2005 Pioneer Award Winner
Jim Wright
2004 Pioneer Award Winner
Ronald K. Remington
2003 Pioneer Award Winner